mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to semi-translucent, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to semi-translucent, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary mineral in igneous rocks like granite. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, as an abrasive, in electronics (piezoelectric properties), jewelry, and as a decorative stone in landscaping.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found in nature.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic greasy/waxy luster on broken surfaces. Very common in quartz veins in mountainous regions.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous